Turning a Matched Set of Bowls

Patternmakers' tricks for consistent shapes

Turning a good matched set of bowls can be a challenge, and it calls for careful planning and execution. In this article, Arthur F. Sherry shares patternmakers’ tricks and templates that will help you turn a series of bowls exactly alike. He offers tips on drying the wood thoroughly, on designing the bowls, and on cutting out and sanding the bowl template. He uses a lathe to turn the inside of the bowl, stopping often to check the fit. There’s no room for error in turning the outside of the bowl, and he explains how to do it and what the template drawbacks are. Drawings show the template and its dimensions, as well as an alternate setup. Side information covers a food-safe walnut-oil finish.